Reflections on Gardening, Growth, and Gratitude
May 1, 2026
Hello, Everyone!
Let’s start with a classic nursery rhyme:
Mistress Mary, quite contrary,
How does your garden grow?
With silver bells and cockle shells,
And marigolds in a row.
I remember a slightly different version—“Mary, Mary” and “pretty maids in a row” for the last line. After digging around, I discovered the version above was published in 1911 in The Secret Garden. The rhyme’s history is surprisingly rich; check Wikipedia if you want to read more!
So, here’s the real question: How does your garden grow?
I’m genuinely curious—do you have a garden? Is it a few pots on a patio, or maybe a sprawling backyard? What tips or tricks help your plants thrive?
As for me, I’m not exactly a gardening pro. Honestly, I consider myself a pretty average—and sometimes lazy—gardener. I hire someone to help in the yard a couple of times a month, and he’s always ready to tackle extra jobs if I pay him for it! (smile)
I do try to do my part, though. I get out there and pull weeds, but sometimes I question whether I’m really pulling weeds or accidentally yanking up something special. I always try to feel the plant before pulling, hoping not to uproot a flower I haven’t met yet. Still, I give it my best shot—at least I try, right? (smile)
Living with blindness makes navigating the yard a challenge. My gardener suggested using landscape timbers so I can guide myself with my cane and always know where I am. He also put up a small U-shaped barrier by the road—now the garbage can gets placed where I can find it easily. The lattice panels he used look great and are super helpful. Someday, I’d love to have a walking path in my backyard with a spot to sit, reflect, and soak up nature. That project has to wait until our patio’s fixed, though—it’s a serious safety hazard right now. Fingers crossed that gets done by summer’s end!
Living in the Sunshine State, I’ve learned to start early and hope for cooler mornings and occasional rain, especially during the heat waves.
I’m grateful for all the help I have and thankful to live in a home with a yard. That’s what counts most. Stay safe out there—and if you smoke, please make sure your cigarette is fully out in water. Let’s do our part to prevent wildfires!
Take time to walk in nature, breathe deeply, and savor the flowers.
In a world full of challenges, I’m thankful that nothing can stop the arrival of spring.
– Helen Keller